World Cup 2026 Host Cities — UV Index & Sun Safety Guide

During the 11 June to 19 July window, UV levels at most host cities peak in the Very High to Extreme range (8 to 11+) around midday. High-altitude, low-latitude venues such as Estadio Azteca in Mexico City are especially intense, and southern U.S. cities like Dallas, Houston and Miami regularly hit an 9 to 11 UV index in the early afternoon. Even the northern venues in Canada and the Pacific Northwest reach High to Very High levels on clear summer days.

Apply a broad-spectrum SPF 30 to 50 sunscreen 15 minutes before you arrive and reapply every two hours, or more often if you sweat. Wear a wide-brimmed hat and UV-blocking sunglasses, choose shaded seats where you can, use the halftime break to top up sunscreen and drink water, and remember that reflected UV from concrete and stadium surfaces adds to your exposure.

Mexico City typically records the highest peak UV of any host city because it sits near the equator at over 2,200 metres of altitude, where thinner air filters out less UV radiation. Among the U.S. venues, Miami, Houston and Dallas rank highest, while Toronto and Vancouver in Canada see the mildest summer UV of the tournament.

Many group-stage and knockout matches kick off around midday or in the early afternoon to suit global broadcast audiences. That places fans in the stands during the hours when the sun is highest and UV radiation peaks, so sun safety matters just as much as staying hydrated in the summer heat.

Several venues, including SoFi Stadium, AT&T Stadium, Mercedes-Benz Stadium and NRG Stadium, are covered or have retractable roofs, which cuts direct exposure inside the bowl. Even so, you will spend time travelling, queuing and tailgating outdoors before and after the match, so sunscreen and a hat are still worth packing.